Overview
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a midsize luxury sedan that balances comfort, technology, and refinement, making it ideal for commuters, families, and drivers who want a premium daily driver with a quiet, upscale feel. This model year sits in the W213 generation, introduced for 2017 as a major redesign with updated styling, a new platform, and significantly more driver-assistance tech than the prior E-Class. In the market, it competes directly with the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6, focusing on a smoother ride and a more tech-forward cabin. Shoppers often consider it for long highway trips, executive use, and anyone prioritizing safety and comfort.
Key Features
1) Engine lineup variety: The E300 uses a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 (241 hp), while the E400 offers a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (329 hp). Performance-focused shoppers can look at the AMG E43 with a higher-output 3.0L biturbo V6 (396 hp) and standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
2) Advanced driver assistance: Available systems include Active Brake Assist, adaptive cruise control (DISTRONIC), lane-keeping assistance, and semi-automated driving features designed to reduce fatigue on long trips.
3) Premium ride and cabin isolation: The W213 E-Class is known for a composed, quiet ride, with suspension tuning aimed at comfort and stability, especially on the highway.
4) Modern infotainment and displays: Many trims feature the widescreen-style dashboard with large digital displays, navigation, Bluetooth, and available premium audio, creating a high-end, tech-rich feel.
5) Available 4MATIC and strong all-weather usability: All-wheel drive availability (and standard on some variants) improves traction in rain and snow without sacrificing luxury-car comfort.
Common Issues & Reliability
Owners searching “2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class problems” or “2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class common issues” most often report concerns that are typical of a first-year redesign: excellent features, but more complexity to maintain. Here are several issues commonly mentioned by 2017 E-Class owners and technicians:
1) Infotainment and electronics glitches: Some owners report screen freezes, COMAND/infotainment reboots, Bluetooth pairing issues, or driver-assistance warnings that come and go. These can appear anywhere from 10,000–60,000 miles and may require software updates, module resets, or occasional component replacement.
2) 9G-TRONIC transmission behavior: The 9-speed automatic is generally smooth, but some drivers notice rough or delayed shifts, hesitation, or “lurching” at low speeds, sometimes in the 20,000–70,000 mile range. In many cases, updated transmission software, adaptation resets, and proper fluid service (when due) improve drivability.
3) Air suspension/ride height concerns (if equipped): Models with AIRMATIC can develop leaks or compressor issues as miles add up, leading to uneven ride height or a bouncy ride. This is more common as vehicles approach higher mileage (often 60,000+), and repairs can be costly compared to steel-spring setups.
4) Sensor-related warnings and calibration needs: Parking sensors, radar/camera systems, and other safety tech can trigger warning lights due to sensor contamination, misalignment, or faults. Sometimes it’s as simple as cleaning and recalibration; other times, a sensor replacement is needed.